A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hood River vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Hood River or Toronto?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Hood River or Toronto? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Hood River travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Toronto travel costs.

Hood River and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Hood River or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto. Although Hood River and Toronto are popular destinations, Toronto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Toronto is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. Toronto is famous for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also well known for the CN Tower.

How is Hood River different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Toronto and Hood River. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Skiing?

Hood River
Toronto

Hood River is a town with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, Toronto is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Toronto is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hood River or Toronto?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Toronto are world-renowned. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Hood River or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hood River
Toronto

Dining out at restaurants in both Hood River and Toronto can be an enjoyable experience.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Dining out in Toronto is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Toronto is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.


Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Hood River
Toronto

Hood River is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hood River or Toronto?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Toronto draws large crowds to its stores. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Many visitors go to Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Hood River or Toronto More Beautiful?

Hood River
Toronto

Hood River is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Families?

Hood River
Toronto

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hood River or Toronto.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Toronto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Couples?

Hood River
Toronto

With fun activities for couples, both Hood River and Toronto make for a excellent place to visit.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River
Toronto

Hood River and Toronto are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Toronto is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.


Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Students?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hood River is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Toronto. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Hood River is not popular with students.

Is Hood River or Toronto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Toronto can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Hood River or Toronto a more walkable city?

Hood River
Toronto

Toronto is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.


For even more information, also check out Is Hood River Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Hood River?

How long in Hood River or Toronto?

Both Hood River and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Hood River. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hood River, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

Families should spend more time in Toronto than Hood River. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Toronto, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Toronto than Hood River. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Toronto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Hood River if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Toronto.


  • How many days in Hood River or Toronto? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hood River 2-3 
    Toronto 3-7

One day in Hood River or Toronto?

In Hood River, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hood River or Toronto?

In Hood River, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hood River has to offer.

When visiting Toronto, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Hood River or Toronto?

Hood River is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Toronto, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Hood River or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Toronto or Hood River?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hood River Prices
    USA Prices
    Toronto Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hood River $174
    Toronto $249

The average daily cost (per person) in Hood River is $174, while the average daily cost in Toronto is $249. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hood River and Toronto in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hood River $78
    Toronto $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hood River $156
    Toronto $172
Compare Hotels in Hood River and Toronto

Looking for a hotel in Hood River or Toronto? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hood River


Hotels in Toronto


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hood River Hotel Prices and Toronto Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hood River $46
    Toronto $32

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Toronto

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Toronto are as follows:


  • Airport Shuttle
    $26
  • Train: 2 Day Passes
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toronto

Also for Toronto, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Toronto APT-HTL (YYZ): $111
  • Transfer from Toronto City Center to Pearson Airport(YYZ): $53
  • Transfer from Pearson Airport(YYZ) to Toronto City Center: $53
  • Transfer Toronto,Canada (Downtown) to Niagara on the Lake,Canada: $177
  • Transfer Toronto,Canada (Downtown) to Niagara Falls, Canada: $177
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara-on-the-Lake,Canada: $160
  • Transfer Toronto Pearson International Airport YYZ to Niagara Falls, Canada: $160
  • Transfer Toronto Hotels to Toronto Pearson Airport YYZ: $41
  • Shuttle Transfer Between Downtown and Niagara Falls: $112
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $176
  • Private Transfer to Niagara Falls: $155
  • Private Transfer to Kingston City or Queen's Unive…: $816

Is it cheaper to fly into Hood River or Toronto?

Prices for flights to both Toronto and Hood River change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hood River $70
    Toronto $112

Typical Food Prices in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch at St. Lawrence Market for Two
    $23
  • Dinner at Mill Street Brewery (for 2)
    $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toronto

For Toronto, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Premium Harbor Cruise with Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner: $46
  • Great White North Food Tour: $54
  • Great White North Toronto Food Tour: $55
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $61
  • Toronto Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour: $66
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $71
  • Kensington Market 'Taste the World' Food Tour: $72
  • Must-Do Toronto Food Tour by Toronto's First Food Tour Company: $73
  • St Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $78
  • French Bistro Cooking Class in Toronto (Includes 3-Course Meal): $80
  • Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat, Journey, Dinner & Fireworks: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hood River $18
    Toronto $31

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $179

Typical Entertainment Prices in Toronto

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Toronto's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Gallery of Ontario for Two
    $15
  • CN Tower at night for Two
    $36
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise
    $26
  • Bata Shoe Museum (2)
    $7.26

Tours and Activities in Toronto

For Toronto, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Casual Tour of Toronto by Land, Sky and Sea: $111
  • 1 Day City Sightseeing Tour at Toronto City: $69
  • 1-Hour Private Guided Photography Tour in Toronto: $296
  • 1-Hour Toronto Harbour Tour with Live Narration: $25
  • 14-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto: $240
  • 3hr Shared Sailing Adventure: $177
  • 60-Minute Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour: $28
  • 7-Minute Helicopter Tour over Toronto: $135
  • Action Film and Television Locations Half Day Tour in Toronto: $150
  • Admission Ticket: Explore Canada in Miniature Scale: $33
  • Algonquin Park Hiking: Adventure Tour from Toronto: $151
  • Algonquin Park and Ragged Falls Hike and Canoe Adventure: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hood River $19
    Toronto $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Toronto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toronto:

  • Distillery District Historic Walking Tour: $20
  • Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • Illuminarium Toronto in the Distillery District: $26
  • Distillery & Old Town Private Walking Tour: $28
  • Short Distillery District Segway Tour: $35
  • 30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour: $36
  • Toronto Distillery & Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide: $42
  • Toronto Distillery District Self-Guided Walking Tour: $43
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Pub Crawl Toronto: $44
  • Distillery District Breakfast Walking Tour: $53
  • Distillery District Breakfast Tour: $54


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hood River and Toronto, we can see that Toronto is more expensive. And not only is Hood River much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hood River would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hood River and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Toronto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toronto than you might in Hood River.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hood River Expensive? and Is Toronto Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hood River or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 730 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Hood River and Toronto, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Hood River or Toronto?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hood River or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Hood River are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hood River in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hood River is generally around the same temperature as Toronto. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 68°F (20°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Toronto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. Hood River usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during summer. Hood River gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hood River usually receives less rain than Toronto. Hood River gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hood River 68°F (20°C) 
    Toronto 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Hood River during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Toronto because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Hood River is a little warmer than Toronto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hood River averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Hood River often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto. Hood River gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets more rain in October than Toronto. Hood River gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hood River 55°F (13°C) 
    Toronto 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hood River and Toronto. The winter months attract visitors to Hood River because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

It's quite cold in Toronto in the winter. The weather in Hood River can be very cold. In the winter, Hood River is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hood River in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Toronto averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Hood River usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto during winter. Hood River gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hood River gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hood River usually receives more rain than Toronto. Hood River gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hood River 40°F (4°C) 
    Toronto -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Hood River or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hood River as well as Toronto. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hood River this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the activities around the city.

In April, Hood River is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Hood River average around 51°F (11°C), and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hood River this time of the year. In the spring, Hood River often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Hood River gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Hood River usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Toronto. Hood River gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hood River 51°F (11°C) 
    Toronto 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Toronto and Hood River

Hood River Toronto
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) -4°C (25°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) -4°C (26°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 1°C (34°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
May 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 12°C (54°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 18°C (64°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 21°C (70°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 21°C (69°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 11°C (51°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm) -1°C (30°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)